Synonyms for

Inflict

Verb / ˌɪˈnflɪkt / Another word for inflict — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to cause something painful or harmful to be felt

Synonyms & similar words

bringdown impose visit impose subject cause administer deal visit bring apply deliver saddle wreak enforce press burden load tax punish

Synonyms by register

Formal

impose administer deliver subject

Informal

give lay on deal out

Literary

mete out deal

Antonyms

soothe heal benefit help aid comfort relieve

Common collocations

  • inflict pain
  • inflict damage
  • inflict punishment
  • inflict injury
  • inflict suffering
  • inflict a blow
  • inflict a wound

Word family

noun infliction
verb inflict
adjective inflicted

Usage note

Inflict is typically used to describe causing something unpleasant or harmful to someone or something. It often implies a deliberate action, though it can also be used for natural disasters.

Example sentences

  1. He wanted to inflict revenge on his enemy.
  2. The storm inflicted severe damage on the houses.
  3. The doctor had to inflict a painful injection.
  4. The disease can inflict anyone who is not vaccinated.
  5. She didn't want to inflict any harm on anyone.

Quotes

  • The worst pain a man can suffer: to have insight into much and power over nothing. - Herodotus
  • The greatest gift you can give someone is your own personal development. I used to say, 'If you will take care of me, I will take care of you.' Now I say, 'I will take care of me for you, if you will take care of you for me.' - Jim Rohn
  • The weapon of the advocate is the sword of the soldier, not the dagger of the assassin. - Alexander Cockburn

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